Protocol of the systematic literature review on the state of biocide resistance in wild vector populations in the EU and neighbouring countries

Globalisation, climate change, and altered land use have facilitated the spread of disease vectors into new areas, making these diseases a significant challenge for European public and veterinary health authorities. In many cases, vector control is the primary strategy to prevent transmission, as vaccines or effective treatments may be lacking. Methods such as biocide application are commonly used to control vector populations, but the widespread use of biocides has led to the development of resistance in vector species. This resistance, which reduces the effectiveness of biocides, complicates efforts to manage vector-borne diseases, increasing the public and veterinary health burden. Resistance to biocides used in public and veterinary health has been reported globally. Understanding the scope of biocide resistance in wild vector populations is essential for adapting and improving control strategies. This systematic literature review protocol aims to review the current status of biocide resistance in wild vector populations within the EU/EEA, excluding outermost regions, and to provide an overview of the mechanisms of resistance observed in these species, supporting more effective vector control interventions.